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Thursday, January 04, 2018

Real Estate Resolutions for 2018

Real Estate Resolutions for 2018

The start of a new year is a good time to re-evaluate goals and plans for the future in regards to relationships, work, finances and health. Although
it is often overlooked, real estate can have a real impact on one’s lifestyle and should be taken into consideration when making New Year’s resolutions.
Making smart real estate moves can greatly increase one’s quality of life from a financial and emotional standpoint.

For example, do you desire more financial stability? Are you happy with your current living situation? There might be a real estate opportunity that
could help make your dreams a reality. They say that home is where the heart is, so do yourself a favor and factor these real estate resolutions
into your 2018 happiness equation.

Become a First-Time Homeowner

If you are still shelling out rent each month, resolve make your first real estate purchase this year. In addition to historically low mortgage interest
rates continuing in 2018, it is a possibility that new tax laws may lower home values in some areas making it even easier for first-time buyers
to enter the market. Resolve to take the first steps like getting pre-approved for a mortgage, researching neighborhoods and building relationships
with local realtors so you will be prepared to move quickly when you find the right property.

Purchase an Investment Property

If you already own your own home, resolve to start looking for an investment opportunity this year. Investing in real estate is an age-old way to create
a valuable revenue stream that can stand the test of time. Whether you want to generate quick cash with a fix-and-flip, steady income with a rental
property or diversify your retirement portfolio with passive income from long-term holdings, this could be the year that you find the perfect investment
to help you meet your financial goals.

Commit to Home Improvement

Despite the healthy outlook for buyers, 2018 will likely continue to be a seller’s market. Even if you aren’t thinking about selling right now, resolve
to stay abreast of the competition in your neighborhood by re-assessing your home’s value and planning for any necessary renovations or updates.
Do you need a new roof or have you been dreaming of a kitchen renovation? Keep in mind that most buyers these days want turn-key homes that don’t
require much work. Stop putting it off and make 2018 the year to invest in your home so you have time to enjoy the improvements before you’re scrambling
to sell.

Expand Your Real Estate Know-How

Even if you don’t own property yet, the real estate industry is a vital part of the economy that affects everything from politics and finance to families
and jobs. If you don’t know much about the real estate market in your area, resolve to learn more about it in 2018. Expand your knowledge by reading
articles and blogs, and make it a habit to keep tabs on local property listings, neighborhoods and realtors in your area. Armed with this valuable
knowledge you’ll be more likely to recognize a valuable opportunity when it arises.

Review your Rates

If you have already owned a home for a while, resolve to review your rates, including your mortgage and property tax assessments, to make sure you
aren’t over-paying. Consult an accountant to get the facts about how the new tax laws might impact your deductions next year, and start planning
for the changes now. Many people can save thousands of dollars each year by simply re-financing their mortgage, re-assessing the value of their
property or re-arranging their payment structures for tax purposes.